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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UFL chapter.

Free People has been one of my favorite brands for a while now due to their high-quality, stylish and comfortable pieces. While some items can be pricier, their clothing truly lasts forever, so this brand deserves a spotlight. When I wear Free People, my mood instantly enhances because I feel confident in their clothing. Not only do these clothes boost my self-esteem, but they also are a great way to express myself. According to a New York Times article, I am not alone in this sentiment. The way one dresses does have an impact on their mood and performance. My article features my favorite Free People pieces, including comfortable and casual clothes to style for class, trendy pieces for going out and athletic gear for workouts, to help everyone feel and look their best:

Tops

Free People has many tops, from casual tanks to formal blouses. I tend to purchase my basic pieces from Free People since they are versatile, nice-fitting and affordable. The Clean Lines Basic Collection offers tanks, tees, long sleeves and bodysuits.

  1. Clean Lines Long Sleeve – This buttery soft long-sleeve top is $50 and comes in over 10 colors. The square neckline is super flattering and makes the top appropriate for just about any occasion.
  2. Clean Lines Baby Tee – Everyone could use having a high-quality fitted t–shirt in their closet. For $40, you can have this square neckline, seamless top with a built-in bra.
  3. Clean Lines Muscle Cami – If square necklines aren’t for you, this scoop neckline muscle cami is another option. This top is $40 and comes in over 15 colors, meaning there is a color for everyone. This top features the same buttery, seamless material with a built-in bra.
  4. Clean Lines Cami – This $30 cami is ideal for the warm weather in Gainesville that makes it feel like summer year-round. I own this style halter top with a built-in bra.
  5. We the Free The Perfect Tee – While not a part of the Clean Lines Collection, I could not exclude this ever so slightly cropped, raw hemmed loose fitting t-shirt from the list. This $38 cotton top is super easy to throw on for class or to wear to lounge around.
  6. Duo Corset Cami – This top is trending on TikTok because it is $48, comes in over 15 colors and the sweetheart neckline looks good on everyone. This top is also seamless, similar to most of the tops on this list, and has a scoop back. What makes this top special is the compressive material underneath that has a slimming effect. What else could you want in a top?
  7. The Carrie Tube – Tube tops are making a comeback. While I swore to never wear one again after 2019, this $30 top makes it hard to follow that promise. You can find this top in basic neutrals or bold colors. This tube top can be dressed up or down and worn to a brunch or going out.

Bottoms

I also really like Free People denim. The pieces have an almost vintage-like appearance and are comfortable, which is uncommon for denim. There are some bold styles, but I prefer the basics with a slight twist.

  1. We The Free Wynne Denim Skirt – This asymmetrical skirt is a fun take on a traditional denim mini skirt. The mid-rise, relaxed fit makes this $78 skirt really likable. There’s subtle distressing on the five different washes, and it’s made in sizes 24 to 33.
  2. We The Free Tinsley Baggy High-Rise Jeans – Bagging jeans are the new thing. While these pants are pricier since they are $98, they are a worthwhile investment. The high-rise waist is complimentary, and the loose fit will make you want to wear denim. These pants are super versatile since they can be worn with a nice going-out top or a simple t-shirt.

Workout Tops

I discovered Free People Active a little over a year ago, and I have been obsessed ever since. Their feminine take on classic styles mixed with fun colors makes me want to work out.

  1. Tempo Ruched Long Sleeve – Even though we are almost entering spring, this ruched front long-sleeve top for $50 comes in eight colors. My favorite colors include bright pink, royal blue, lilac and coral. This top is UPF-rated, meaning it can protect you from the harsh sun. The stretchy and light material makes this top acceptable for all kinds of weather.
  2. Tempo Short-Sleeve Tee – This breathable, lightweight short-sleeve tee for $40 is great for Florida’s climate. I usually wear this top with biker shorts or leggings due to the shorter front and longer flowy sides.
  3. Inspire Tank – This tank top is a steal at just $28. I sometimes prefer wearing looser tops and fitted bottoms while working out, which is why this oversized muscle tank is perfect. You can find this top in five colors and with a raw-edge trim, giving it a casual look. This top is best paired with leggings.
  4. Breathe Deeper Crop Tank – If you’re wondering where the feminine workout gear is on this list, here it is. This ruched crop tank with cap sleeves is adorable and great for low-impact workouts. At just $48, you can feel fancy while walking around campus or at the gym.

Workout Shorts

Free People Active shorts are, typically, a cheaper alternative to Lululemon that still meets the same high-quality threshold. Ruffles and pleats are common additions to their shorts.

  1. Get Your Flirt On Shorts – This iconic FP staple short is sold in over 15 colors for $40. The water-resistant fabric makes these shorts durable and I love that the shorts don’t move around a lot when you walk. The built-in briefs add to the comfort, and the side ruffles add to the cuteness.
  2. Easy Tiger Shorts – I am wearing a pair of these $48 shorts right now while writing this article. I have a navy pair with light orange accents, which I had to buy since they are the most Gator-spirited workout clothes I have ever seen. This style of shorts has pleated sides and contrasting color accents. These shorts are a little bit longer, which I prefer since I have long legs. The thin elastic waistband, built-in briefs and water-resistant material make these shorts a go-to style in my closet.
  3. Never Better Bike Shorts – If flowy shorts aren’t your thing, this pair of biker shorts is for you. These medium-impact workout-approved stretchy shorts feature a wide waistband to add extra comfort. For $48, you can’t go wrong.

Dresses

Elegant and girly are the two words I would use to describe the dresses sold by Free People.

  1. Marina Mini – This Free People staple mini dress features puff sleeves and an adjustable open back with a tie. There are over 10 colorways to choose from. Once again, this dress has a tasteful square neckline, a lining and an effortless look for $88.
  2. Made Me Smile Mini – The name of this dress is fitting. This $78 dress features a fitted bodice that connects to a pleated a-line skirt with a button-up back closure. It comes in five colors and is perfect for an elevated gameday look with sneakers (or cowboy boots) or for a nice event with heels.

Outerwear

While I know we don’t need many jackets living in Gainesville, it can get pretty chilly from late November until the end of February.

  1. Hit the Slopes Jacket – As soon as I saw this jacket while shopping with my roommates last fall, I knew it would be popular. This fleece oversized jacket is so soft and cozy, but also stylish. The button closure is an untraditional alternative to a zipper. It can be best described as a less bulky and more plush version of a puffer jacket. I have it in pink, but there are over 15 colors to choose from. I wear this jacket every chance I get, whether it be on my long walks to class or while studying in my frigid apartment. Despite being $148, I know I will wear this timeless style year after year.

I hope you enjoyed reading about why Free People deserves all the hype. This list encompasses so many incredible pieces that check all the boxes. Free People has something for just about everyone. Free People has made me a more confident version of myself by creating reliable, comfortable and complimentary clothing.

Hey everyone! I am Neenah Brown, a third-year English major at the University of Florida. I am so excited to be able to pursue my passion for journalism on the Her Campus UFL team! In my free time, I like to work out, play tennis, shop, spend time with friends, go to the beach and eat at Chick-Fil-A. My writing is usually about fashion and college life as a Gator. After graduation, I plan on attending law school.